10 Gallbladder Infection Symptoms
Symptom #6: Jaundice
Bilirubin is a substance that is made as a by-product of red blood cells being broken down by our livers. The bilirubin itself will also usually be broken down, while some of it will be stored in the gallbladder. If there is a problem with the gallbladder, such as a blocked bile duct, then the bilirubin can accumulate and end up in the bloodstream.
Bilirubin has a natural yellowish color and, when found in high quantities in the blood, it will give our skin and whites of the eyes a yellow discoloration (jaundice) and may cause itching all over the body. However, it is not a specific sign of biliary problems. Jaundice can be observed in approximately 15% of patients with acute cholecystitis. While jaundice in itself is not necessarily dangerous, it is a sign that there may be a serious underlying condition that needs to be treated.
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